Distress Beacon Activated for Tanker CHEM POLARIS in Atlantic Ocean

August 2, 2024 (09:43 UTC): A distress beacon alert was received by the U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) Norfolk at 2:35 am UTC (7:35 am EDT) on August 2nd, 2024.

The beacon, a 406 MHz EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), originated from the Liberian-flagged chemical tanker CHEM POLARIS (MMSI 636016965). The alert did not provide any additional information beyond the vessel's identification and location.

The CHEM POLARIS is currently located at 33° 29.9' North, 50° 18.8' West in the Atlantic Ocean. Mariners in the vicinity are urged to exercise caution, maintain a sharp lookout, and report any sightings to RCC Norfolk.

Ship Details:

Name: CHEM POLARIS
IMO: 9416044
MMSI: 636016965
Flag: Liberia
Call Sign: D5IQ3
Size: 146 meters x 24 meters (479 ft x 79 ft)
Gross Tonnage: 11,751 tons
Deadweight Tonnage: 19,859 tons
Built: 2008 (16 years old)

Weather Conditions in the Area:

Wind: Easterly at 9 knots with gusts up to 12 knots, decreasing.
Wave height: 1 meter (3.3 ft).
Visibility: Good with clear or partly cloudy skies.

The cause of the distress beacon activation and the status of the CHEM POLARIS remain unknown at this time. The U.S. Coast Guard is likely attempting to contact the vessel and determine the nature of the emergency. This article will be updated with further information as it becomes available.

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